Greener Extraction and Optimization of Properties of Alginate-based Bioplastics and Hydrogels for 3D Printing

Seaweeds naturally produce polymers that hold great potential as a building block for bioplastics, which has been piloted globally but still nascent in Canada. This project establishes a partnership between Bioform Solutions Inc. and the University of Victoria Green Safe Water Lab, to develop a seeds-to-solution protocol for converting kelp into higher value bioplastics. The key molecule, alginate, varies in composition depending on the species of kelp. This means that to develop a process appropriate for Canada’s Pacific Coast, we must understand the composition of alginate in local kelp and kelp species that are readily cultivated in our waters by partners such as Kelp Blue and Canadian Pacifico Seaweeds. We will then correlate this information to the types of bioplastics that will be most suitable to manufacture Using a 3D extrusion printing technology developed at Bioform. This work will take place in three stages: extraction of sodium alginate, analysis and recommendations, and developing industrial processes to enhance chemical recovery and composition of the most promising materials. This local innovation will benefit small-scale, Canadian aquaculture, often in remote locations, and provide a secure, sustainable path forward in Canadian materials manufacturing.

Faculty Supervisor:

Heather Buckley

Student:

Partner:

Bioform Technologies Inc

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

University of Victoria

Program: